Fountain switched off after vandalism

The fountain in Hull's newly revamped Queen's Gardens has been switched off after vandals broke into its control room.

According to Hull City Council, the Rose Bowl, at the entrance to the city centre park, was damaged at some point between 23 and 25 May.

The council said the fountain's electronic system needs reprogramming, while the fountain itself needs draining and cleaning before it can be switched back on.

Councillor Mark Ieronimo said: "It's incredibly disappointing to see the Rose Bowl Fountain targeted in this way, especially during the opening week of Queen's Gardens."

He described the actions as "reckless and irresponsible".

Ieronimo added: "It's not only resulted in the damage of a much-loved feature, but it is also going to cost taxpayer money to repair and clean – which could be better spent elsewhere."

Queen's Gardens closed for a £21m refurbishment in 2023 and fully reopened on 29 May.

The fountain, built in 1935 when the former dock basin was filled in, was fully restored in 2022 as part of wider works, with the Rose Bowl gardens re-opened after refurbishment in July 2025.

Ieronimo said: "We are working hard to repair the damage and get the fountain up and running as soon as possible, so everyone can enjoy it again."

He urged anyone with information about the incident to contact Humberside Police.

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